A dream come true: Filipino voices join Pope Leo XIV’s Madrid choir

MADRID, Spain — Several Filipino singers have been chosen to join the choir Pope Leo XIV’s meeting with the diocesan community at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Monday, June 8.

They will sing with the Coro Encuentro Bernabéu, a massive 1,000-member choir composed of around 700 adults and 300 children, together with 80 musicians and 100 dancers.

Among the songs they will perform is the official hymn of the visit, “Alza la Mirada,” which carries the message of raising one’s gaze, looking to Christ, and finding new light.

For the Filipino singers, this is a rare chance to sing before the Pope, represent the Filipino community, and take part in a historic moment for the Church in Spain.

Khrys Magno said she feels honored to be among those chosen after the audition process, while Dionisio Cataga Jr. said he was amazed by the diversity of the choir and excited to sing before the Pope and the crowd.

Romel Leo Alojado, a baritone from Barcelona, said the experience is special for him as a Filipino Catholic in Europe. He said seeing the Pope and singing with the choir in Madrid is an opportunity that is not easy to have back in the Philippines.

For others, the moment is deeply personal. Jenny Monastrial said she is excited to see the Pope in person for the first time, while Lourdette Pascua said she feels grateful to sing for Pope Leo XIV in Madrid after also singing for Pope Francis in the Philippines.

Sara Mae Ayende said singing in church has always been her dream, and now that dream is happening in Madrid with the Pope’s visit. Elizabeth Berme also said she is thankful and honored to be part of the choir that will sing at the Bernabéu event.

For these Filipino singers, the Bernabéu stage is not only about music. It is a moment of faith, pride and representation as Pope Leo XIV begins his apostolic visit to Spain.